Release: President Obama Announces Support For Marriage Equality

President Obama Announces Support For Marriage EqualityHistoric Day for LGBT Families to Culminate In Ringing The Closing Bell At The New York Stock Exchange

Washington DC - (May. 9, 2012) - Family Equality Council, the national organization that connects, supports and represents the one million parents in this country who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) and the two million children they are raising, today rejoiced to hear that President Barack Obama supports the freedom to marry for people who are LGBT.

“This is a historic day for families everywhere,” says Executive Director Jennifer Chrisler. “I am thrilled that the President has again demonstrated his firm commitment to the millions of tax paying Americans who want to show their love and commitment to each other through marriage. His support for our fundamental equality cannot be overstated.”

The President’s remarks come after a long period of public “evolution” on the issue of marriage equality. Ms. Chrisler attributes the evolution to brave LGBT couples and parents who have been changing hearts and minds all over the United States.

“We have long understood, deep in our hearts, that love makes a family, but there is no disputing that marriage strengthens it,” she added. “For more than 30 years, a generation of parents has focused on raising their children to love their country, support their friends and neighbors and treat all people with respect. They have given these values to their children, but have been unable to provide them with simple legal and economic protections that other married couples count on for their kids.

The President has promised a new generation of children that their parents will be able to provide those protections and more importantly that their parents love and commitment to each other will be recognized, respected and valued.

President Obama has fulfilled his promise of evolving his views on marriage and history will honor his leadership on extending fairness and freedom to all Americans.”

This is also happening on a day when our families are ringing the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange. Never before have LGBT families been so visible, so united, and so full of hope for the future.

Executive Director Jennifer Chrisler will be available for interviews. For scheduling, contact Steve Majors -202-664-0079 or Sean Carlson -202-550-2315. Families may be available for interviews onsite.